Hindustan Zinc subsidiary, Hindmetal, eyes mineral exploration licence auctions (Image shows an aerial survey for potential mineral deposits underway) Energy Watch
Critical Minerals

Hindustan Zinc subsidiary, Hindmetal, eyes mineral exploration licence auctions

Hindmetal Exploration, a subsidiary of Hindustan Zinc, is keenly tracking the first tranche of Exploration Licence (EL) auctions launched by the Ministry of Mines

EW Bureau

Udaipur: Hindmetal Exploration Services, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hindustan Zinc Limited, is keenly tracking the first tranche of Exploration Licence (EL) auctions launched by the Ministry of Mines, said the company on Tuesday. The ministry has recently initiated the first tranche of auctions under the EL regime, offering 13 blocks across 10 states, covering deposits of critical and deep-seated minerals such as gold, copper, diamonds, zinc, and rare earth elements.

“Hindmetal Exploration is actively engaged in identifying, discovering, assessing, and developing mineral resources through state-of-the-art geological and geophysical technologies. Established in 2024, the company focuses on systematic exploration of all types of mineral deposits and actively participates in mineral resource auctions. With a data-to-discovery approach, Hindmetal leverages cutting-edge, digital-first exploration technologies to enhance efficiency and accuracy in mineral prospecting,” said the statement.

“Equipped with an in-house team of geologists, geophysicists, and mining experts, along with access to world-class tools and software, the company is committed to supporting India’s ambitious vision of energy transition and critical mineral security by developing world-class mineral assets within the country,” the company added.

Hindmetal aims to explore high-potential blocks

Hindmetal Exploration has been awarded the prestigious QCI-NABET (Quality Council of India - National Accreditation Board for Education and Training) accreditation, earning the status of Category A Exploration Agency under Government of India guidelines. As a Category A Exploration Agency, Hindmetal is now authorised to prepare comprehensive geological reports, secure high-potential critical mineral blocks under the Exploration Licence regime and empanel with the Geological Survey of India (GSI) for geological and geophysical surveys, said the company.

“By participating in the Exploration Licence auctions, Hindmetal aims to explore high-potential blocks while also being eligible for the National Mineral Exploration Trust (NMET) scheme,” it added. Under the EL regime, private exploration companies gain exclusive access to mineral-rich blocks for discovery of deposits through exploration activities.

“This transformational mining reform is set to accelerate the discovery of critical and deep-seated minerals, paving the way for a self-reliant and future-ready mineral ecosystem for India. Hindmetal Exploration remains committed to strengthening India’s mining sector, driving sustainable exploration, and contributing to the country’s clean energy and industrial ambitions,” said Hindmetal.

EU sanctions Rosneft-linked Nayara Energy’s refinery in new move to curb Russia’s global oil trade

Petrol pumps to evolve into green energy & service hubs: Puri tells petroleum dealers

India develops world-leading, carbon-negative green hydrogen tech that uses agricultural waste

RIL’s energy businesses post mixed performance in Q1 FY26 as margins strengthen but volumes decline

TPREL inks 1st battery storage contract with NHPC for 120 MWh project in Kerala